National
1. The state of Punjab is set to start the Census of one of the world's most threatened cetaceans, Indus River dolphin. Indus River dolphin is scientifically called as Platanista gangetica minor. It is a freshwater dolphin, found in river Beas.
2.Institution of Clinical Research India (ICRI) - Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI) recently published its data on stubble burning incidents. This report was published at the time when Delhi and its adjoining states are reeling from a thick blanket of smog and deadly fumes. As a result of this, government has shut schools and take emergency measures to control pollution.
3. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has appealed from exemption from Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law, to avoid the duplicity of laws. UIDAI is already being governed by the Aadhaar Act. The PDP law was making Aadhaar compulsory for several services including the banks, which first initiated the data privacy debate.
4. According to Women and Child Ministry, there are more than 33 lakh malnourished children in India. This figure was reported from Poshan tracker, on which numbers are directly entered by anganwadis and are accessed by the Central government. Ministry further notes that, more than half of the children are in the severely malnourished category.
5. On 4 November, 2021, Assam cabinet approved "Industrial Relation Rules, 2021" with the aim of safeguarding the rights of employers and employees. Industrial Relation Rules have been framed to amalgamate, simplify and rationalise provisions of three central labour codes related to industrial relations.
6. As per Central Pollution Control Board's data, air quality of Delhi has deteriorated to "severe" category on 5 November, after Diwali. The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded as 444 on 5 November at 6 a.m. By 8 am, it worsened to 451. Air pollution of severe levels affects healthy people. It also has serious impacts to people with existing diseases.
7. On 5 November, 2021, Meghalaya Cabinet has approved a proposal to give "Mairang civil sub-division" the status of a full-fledged district. Mairang civil sub-division will now be called as "Eastern West Khasi Hills district". It will be inaugurated on 10 November, 2021.
8. Kerala government has proposed to form "Haritha Karma Sena" (Green Action Force) to collect and segregate waste from city households for transporting it to solid waste treatment facility at Kochi Corporation. Proposal to constitute the action force has been included in the draft bylaw in order to streamline municipal solid waste management system in the city.
9. The Central government has proposed several measures in an affidavit before supreme court, to reduce Delhi air pollution. Central government expressed its unwillingness to ask its employees to work from home. It has advised its employees in Delhi-NCR region to go for carpooling in order to reduce the number of vehicles used by them.
10. Kerala Start-up Mission and Cisco LaunchPad Accelerator Program (CLAP) are set to jointly host the pioneering Technopreneurship Series. India Technopreneurship series will be organised for innovators and start-ups in Kerala. This initiative will provide a platform for innovation and collaboration in order to enable nascent companies to solve new-age challenges.
11. The Ministry of Civil Aviation declared "Srinagar International airport" as a "Major Airport" on 6 November, 2021. Airport was declared as major airport by exercising powers conferred by Sub-Section (i) of Section 2 of the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008.
12. The inaugural Global Drug Policy Index was released by the Harm Reduction Consortium, on 7 November, 2021. In this index, Norway, New Zealand, Portugal, the UK and Australia are the five leading countries with respect to humane and health-driven drug policies. Five lowest-ranked countries are Brazil, Uganda, Indonesia, Kenya, and Mexico.
13. On 8 November, 2021, Srinagar has joined the UNESCO's network of creative cities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the inclusion of Srinagar as a fitting recognition for vibrant cultural ethos of this old city. UNESCO has designated Srinagar as a creative city of craft and folk arts.
14. On 8 November, 2021 devotees offered prayers as a part of their four-day Chhath Puja celebrations at the banks of foam-coated Yamuna near Kalindi Kunj. The visuals have worried environmentalists and led political war of words between Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and other state governments.
15. Uttarakhand Foundation Day is being observed on 9 November. The day is celebrated annually to mark the formation of 27th state of India. Uttarakhand was created in 2000 by joining some districts from the North-western part of Uttar Pradesh and some portion of the Himalayan Mountain range.
16. According to Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya, about 96 countries have agreed to mutually recognise India's Covid-19 vaccination certificate. With this recognition, persons travelling from these countries will be provided certain relaxations as mentioned in Union health ministry's guidelines on international arrivals.
17. The Logistics Ease Across Different States 2021 Index was recently published by Ministry of Commerce & Industry. This is the third edition of Index. In the index, Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab were emerged as best performing states with respect to mobility of goods and efficiency of logistics chain.
18. World Economic Forum (WEP) published its report titled "Mission 2070: A Green New Deal for a Net-Zero India" to provide a roadmap for India's energy transition. The report was published in the backdrop of India's target to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. This target was committed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP26 global climate summit in Glasgow.
19. NITI Aayog has announced the top five aspirational districts in education sector. It has ranked the most improved aspirational districts in the education sector for September month. As per NITI Aayog's delta rankings in education sector, Bhoopalpalli in Telangana has topped.
20. Indian government has issued a Draft Mediation Bill for Public Consultation, that seeks to safeguard the interest of litigants to approach competent adjudicatory forums. Draft Mediation Bill provides for pre-litigation mediation. The bill safeguards the interest of litigants to approach competent adjudicatory forums and courts for urgent relief.
21. Supreme Court heard the Lakhimpur Kheri farmer's killing case on 8 November, 2021 for the third time in recent weeks. The court expressed dissatisfaction over how the case was being handled. Supreme court had registered the suo motu case. SC had directed the UP government to record statements of more witnesses and provide them protection.
22. Chief Minister of Punjab, Charanjit Singh Channi, announced that Punjabi will now be a compulsory subject for all students in the state of Punjab. Punjabi language will be made compulsory from classes 1-10. Apart from that, it will be made mandatory in offices as well.
23. Indian government and Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a loan agreement of $61 million in order to improve liveability, promote new developments and harness technology. The loan agreement will help in accommodating the expanding population in Agartala city.
24. President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Conference of Governors and Lieutenant Governors on 10 November, 2021 at Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. Conference was also attended by Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
25. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) programme was launched in the state of Karnataka, on 12 November, 2021. PCV programme was launched under the universal immunisation programme on the occasion of 'World Pneumonia Day'. It was launched with the aim of spreading awareness and reducing pneumonia induced mortality & morbidity among children.
26. Indian Government is ready to implement sample-based National Achievement Survey (NAS) for Classes 3, 5, 8, and 10 with a cycle period of three years. Previous National Achievement Survey (NAS) was carried on 13 November, 2017, for assessing the competencies developed by children at classes 3, 5 and 8.
27. State Cabinet of Arunachal Pradesh, headed by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, approved "Kaiser-i-Hind" as state butterfly on 13 November, 2021. 'Kaiser-i-Hind' is a large and brightly coloured butterfly. It is an elusive swallowtail butterfly, which carries 'India' in its name.
28. Indian Railways has opened the first Pod retiring rooms for passengers of Indian Railways as well as common people, at the Mumbai Central station. As per senior Western Railway (WR) official, one is required to pay Rs 999 for 12 hours and Rs 1,999 for 24 hours to stay in this pod hotel.
29. Kerala government is set to launch a mobile application to improve and track the collection of inorganic waste across local self-governing bodies. Smart garbage mobile app will be launched across all six municipal corporations, 300 village bodies and 70-odd municipalities in the initial phase.
30. State-level environmental impact assessment committee in Uttar Pradesh (UP) has given Environmental Clearance (EC) for construction of ambitious Ganga Expressway project of UP government. According to a 2006 notification of Union Ministry of Environment, environment clearance for these projects covered under the schedule was mandatory.
31. Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has decided to set up a tax plan for "cow welfare" in the State. Government has decided that a tax plan will be prepared to mop up funds for cow fodder. It has planned to impose surcharge on services provided by local bodies in order to generate Rs 100 crore for meeting the expenses of running cow shelters in Madhya Pradesh.
32. Government of Chhattisgarh has formulated draft rules called "Chhattisgarh Panchayat Provisions (Extension of the Scheduled) Rules, 2021", under PESA Act, 1996. PESA Act stands for "Panchayat (Extension of the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996". This act was enacted by Central government to ensure self-governance through gram sabhas for people in scheduled areas.
33. "Draft Food Safety and Standards (Genetically Modified or Engineered Foods) Regulations, 2021" was issued by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on 15 November, 2021. It will be applicable to Food or Processed food comprising of Genetically Modified ingredients produced from but not containing GMOs, LMOs or GEOs.
34. India's first Food Security Museum was inaugurated by Union minister of consumer affairs, food & public distribution, Piyush Goyal, on 15 November, 2021. The food security museum was established by the Food Corporation of India in Thanjavur. The museum has been co-developed by Food Corporation of India (FCI) and Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museums, Bengaluru.
35. Indian Police Foundation (IPF) conducted a survey on citizens perception. In the survey, Delhi Police has been ranked at seventh spot, among Indian states and union territories (UT). President and CEO of IPF, N. Ramachandran, notes that they received responses from 1,61,192 people in India.
36. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is set to address the event of first Audit Diwas on 16 November, 2021. The event will be held at CAG office premises. On the occasion, PM will also unveil the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. First edition of the Audit Diwas will be celebrated to mark the historic origins of the institution of CAG and the contribution made by it to the governance, transparency and accountability.
37. The International Commission to Reignite the Fight Against Smoking report was recently published. The report was prepared using secondary data from sources such as World Bank. India has been ranked second in the number of smokers aged between 16 and 64 years.
38. Government of India has brought two ordinances to extend tenure of directors of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) for up to five years. Presently, the tenure for the chiefs of both the agencies is two years.
39. Recently, Ministry of Labour released a new series of Wage Rate Index (WRI) with base year 2016. The Wage Rate Index (WRI) is being compiled and maintained by the Labour Bureau. New series of WRI with base 2016=100 is going to replace old series with base 1963-65.
40. Ministry of Food Processing Industry (MoFPI) inked MoU with Department of Animal husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) on 17 November, 2021. The MoU was signed in order to facilitate extension of benefits to dairy entrepreneurs and dairy industries by convergence of several schemes by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
41. The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on "Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019" met recently under the leadership of MP P.P. Chaudhary. Key agenda of the meeting was to consider and adopt the draft report of JPC on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019.
42. India1 Payments has crossed a milestone on deploying 10000 white-label ATMs, which was called as "India1ATMs". India1 Payments is IPO-bound and is promoted by the Banktech Group of Australia. It was formerly known as BTI Payments. With the deployment of 10000 ATMs, India1 Payments has become the largest player in this segment.
43. World's tallest rail bridge pier will soon come up in North-eastern state of Manipur. This bridge is being constructed by Indian Railways at Noney Valley in Manipur. Bridge is having the height of 141 metres. It is a part of ambitious 111 Kilometre long Jiribam-Imphal railway line.
44. Azim Premji University recently published a report on "Health Care Equity in Urban India" in collaboration with 17 regional NGOs in India. Report explores health vulnerabilities and inequalities in cities across India. It also explores the availability, accessibility and cost of healthcare facilities, as well as possibilities in future-proofing services in next decade.
45. Andhra Pradesh (AP) government, in an eco-friendly move, has passed 'AP Motor Vehicles Taxation (Amendment) Bill 2021' to levy a green tax. This move can cause additional burden on vehicle buyers. Green tax will be imposed on all vehicles, except motorcycles and auto rickshaws
46. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) proposed for the alignment of another expressway, that will run from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh to Siliguri in West Bengal via Bihar. NHAI will prepare the detailed project report, after the greenfield alignment is approved by Bihar government.
47. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) findings were released on 24 November, 2021. Report finds that, in Uttar Pradesh, only 1.5% women aged between 30 and 49 years have undergone screening test for cervical cancer in life. Many health indicators have improved in the state.
48. NITI Aayog launched "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Urban Index and Dashboard 2021-22". Shimla has topped the list of cities by scoring highest on the index. Coimbatore and Chandigarh have been ranked at second and third position. Thiruvananthapuram, Panaji, Pune, Kochi, Tiruchirappalli, Ahmedabad and Nagpur are among top 10 cities on the index.
49. Indian Government cautioned people not to subscribe to Starlink Internet Services, which is led by Elon Musk-led SpaceX's satellite broadband arm Starlink. Government is doing so because, the internet service is not licensed yer to offer satellite-based internet services in India.
50. The Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is set to get 13 cheetahs in 2022. The Kuno National Park was originally developed as the second home for Asiatic lions in India, apart from Gir National Park. However, that project did not take off. Of all, 13 cheetahs have been carefully selected. 10 are from South Africa while 3 are from Namibia.
51. The Praja Foundation published its report on 25 November, 2021 on POSCO cases. Report highlights that, despite a decrease in crimes against children, trial of 99 per cent of cases were still pending by December 2020, under the Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences (POCSO).
52. NITI Aayog published its report on India's "Multidimensional Poverty Index" (MPI) recently. Report was prepared on the basis of National Family Health Survey (NFHS) for 2015-16. As per NITI Aayog's report, in year 2015-16, one in every four people in India was multidimensionally poor. It accounts that, 25.01 per cent of the population was multidimensionally poor.
53. During a 'National Consultative Workshop on Citizen Charter & Delivery of Services by Panchayats', which was organised on 22 November, 2021, participants from 16 States signed "Mysuru Declaration". Under it, these states resolved to roll out Common Minimum Service delivery by Panchayats in India from 1 April, 2022.
54. Shillong's famous Cherry Blossom Festival 2021 was held from 25 to 27 November, 2021 in Meghalaya. Cherry Blossom is a three-day Festival, held annually. It was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma and Satoshi Suzuki who is Ambassador of Japan to India.
55. Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, chaired the 9th BRICS Science and Technology Meet on 26 November, 2021. During the meeting, minister called for BRICS countries to come together and innovate cost-effective, sustainable, affordable, accessible, and scalable scientific solutions, because they face similar and unique challenges.
56. On 28 November, 2021, India's only certified organic kiwi from Ziro Valley Farms of Arunachal Pradesh was launched at a mega National Tribal Festival called Aadi Mahotsav. This festival is being held in Dilli Hat, INA in New Delhi. The launch ceremony was held in association with support from Arunachal Pradesh Government and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED).
57. On 29 November, 2021, Indian government informed in Parliament that, India is to develop jet engines for aircrafts like Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) in association with the International Engine House. Presently, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is integrated with an imported engine.
58. The Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2021 is expected to be taken up for final consideration and passing during the winter session of the parliament, which is scheduled to start from 29 November, 2021. The bill seeks to prohibit all private cryptocurrencies in India, with some exceptions.
59. According to National Health Accounts (NHA) estimates for India for 2017-18, share of government health expenditure in the GDP of India has increased from 1.15% in 2013-14 to 1.35% in 2017-18. Latest estimates not only highlight government's expenditure on health exhibiting an increasing trend but also highlights growing trust in public health care system.
60. Nagaland Police officially launched the 'Call your Cop' mobile App on 29 November, 2021. The app was launched at Police Headquarters in Kohima. It will enable all citizens in the state, including those in distress, to get in touch with the police directly, as police will be available easily, with just one click away.
International
1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released a creative video titled "Don't Choose Extinction" on Climate Change. In the video, UNDP highlights that, it is time to act and act now for the climate crisis. To drive home the urgency and get attention of world, it is time to do whatever it takes.
2. India officially endorsed a website made by Indian climate experts, listing the historical carbon dioxide emissions of developed countries. India endorsed the emission list ahead of commencement of the 26th United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) in Glasgow in Scotland.
3. Indian government and the World Bank have signed MoU for a $40 million project for improving the quality of health services in Meghalaya. This MoU will strengthen the capacity of state to handle future health emergencies like covid-19 pandemic. Project is dubbed as "Meghalaya Health Systems Strengthening Project".
4. Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi announced Haj 2022 on 1 November, 2021 at Hajj House in south Mumbai. Online application process has started and last date to apply is 31 January, 2022. People will be able to apply through Hajj mobile app.
5. In the COP26 climate summit's first major deal, on 2 November, 2021, 100 world leaders are set to make promise to end and reverse deforestation by 2030. Brazil will be among the signatories. In Brazil stretches of the Amazon rainforest have been cut down. The pledge includes around $19.2 billion of public and private funds.
6. Australian Government has recognised Covaxin covid-19 vaccine of India on 1 November, 2021. In India, Covaxin and Covishield are the two widely used vaccines. Australia had recognised Covishield, already. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia has recognised Covaxin as well as BBIBP-CorV vaccines for establishing a traveller's vaccination status.
7. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has launched "International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO)" at the G20 Summit. Methane observatory was launched to drive action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It was launched with support from the European Union.
8. On the first day of the global climate meet (COP26) in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed a five-fold strategy for India to play its role in helping the world to get closer to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Prime minister Modi termed his scheme as 'Panchamrita', which means 'five ambrosia'.
9. Telangana, in a rare recognition, has been invited to participate in a conference which will be held virtually by Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). International Seed Conference is a two-day conference. It will be held on 4 November & 5 November, 2021 in Rome. The conference is being organised to discuss development of seed industry.
10. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to excavate 'five kingdoms' related to Dadanite and Lihyanite civilisations. Excavation will be done by a team of French and Saudi Archaeologists. They will excavate five nearby sites related to Dadanite and Lihyanite civilisations. Both of the civilisations were important regional powers, some 2000 years ago.
11. An independent conservation organisation in New Zealand, Forest & Bird, organised its annual Bird of The Year Award, recently. In the year 2021, the annual bird of the year award was won by Pekapeka-tou-roa, which is a native bat species of New Zealand. The species was made the winner in competition, despite not being a bird.
12. The Global Methane Pledge was launched on 2 November, 2021 at the ongoing UN COP26 climate conference in Glasgow. As of now, more than 90 countries have signed this pledge. Global Methane Pledge is an effort led by the United States and the European Union, jointly. This pledge is significant because Methane is the second-most abundant greenhouse gas present in the atmosphere.
13. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for 'One Sun, One World, One Grid' on 2 November, 2021 for improving the viability of solar power. On the occasion, he also announced that India's space agency, ISRO will provide a calculator to the world soon, that can measure solar energy potential of any region.
14. Yahoo Inc. has pulled out of China on 2 November, 2021 because of an increasingly challenging business and legal environment. Yahoo has stopped its services in China from 1 November, 2021. Yahoo took this decision in line with its commitment for rights of users and a free & open internet. This decision coincides with the implementation of Personal Information Protection law in China.
15. On 1 November, 2021, at COP26 climate summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced 2070 as the India's target to reach net zero carbon emissions. India's announcement came as a surprise to delegates in Glasgow, as India had rejected calls to announce such target recently. US, UK & Japan have net zero target by 2050; EU by 2060; Saudi Arabia, China & Russia by 2070.
16. India and Bhutan are set to have seven additional entry and exit points for trade in order to increase trade connectivity. This decision was taken in a commerce secretary-level meeting, that was held between the issue of trade and transit between both the countries.
17. NASA and US Geological Survey led Landsat 9 mission collected and sent its first light images of the Earth. Images highlight the remote coastal islands and inlets of Kimberley region of Western Australia, Lake Erie, white sands of Pensacola Beach and Glaciers high in the Himalayas.
18. A report by the World Food Programme (WFP) has revealed that acute hunger has increased across the world. As a result, 45 million people are living on the edge of famine across 43 countries. In its earlier report in 2021, WFP had estimated this number at 42 million. But, recent assessment of food security reveals that another three million people facing famine in Afghanistan.
19. Astronaut Wang Yaping has become the first Chinese woman to walk in space. As a part of ongoing construction, team of Wang Yaping completed a six-hour stint outside Tiangong space station. Wang and her colleague Zhai Zhigang stepped out of Tiangong on 7 November, 2021. They installed a suspension device and transfer connectors. This was the first extravehicular activity of Shenzhou-13 crew. They will spend six months at the space station.
20. The capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi, has issued new rules to govern divorce, inheritance & child custody for non-Muslims in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi will create a new court for handling these cases. Hearing will be held in Arabic as well as English languages in order to make it understandable to vast foreign worker population there.
21. On 8 November, 2021, Srinagar has joined the UNESCO's network of creative cities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the inclusion of Srinagar as a fitting recognition for vibrant cultural ethos of this old city. UNESCO has designated Srinagar as a creative city of craft and folk arts.
22. Russia has revealed its new Forest Plan, in an effort to deal with climate change. This plan highlights a changed mindset of Russia on climate change. Sakhalin Island in Russia, located north of Japan has become a testing ground for Russia's efforts to reconcile its prized fossil fuel industry with the requirement to do something about climate change.
23. President of Chile, Sebastian Pinera, was impeached on 9 November, 2021 by the lower house of Chile's congress, due to allegations regarding Pandora Papers. This impeachment has set a trial in the Chile's Senate on whether to remove him because of allegations that he favoured the sale of family property while being in office.
24. India is set to host security dialogue on Afghanistan, on 10 November, 2021. Russia, Iran, and all other central Asian countries have confirmed their participation at the dialogue. It is for the first time that not just Afghanistan's immediate land neighbours, but all Central Asian countries will participate. Invitation for the dialogue have been extended to China and Pakistan too.
25. Recently, most of the developing nations like China, India and African countries, have asked around US $1.3 trillion per year from wealthy countries in climate finance which will start from 2030. This demand is likely to cause further consternation even as countries negotiate on this amount at COP26.
26. A regional security summit was hosted by India on 10 November, 2021. The summit was attended by eight nations including Iran and Russia. Conference was represented by the national security advisors of each country. During the conference, it was announced that Afghanistan & its territories cannot be used to shelter or train terrorists, or to finance any act of terrorism.
27. United States of America (USA) became the 101st member country to join International Solar Alliance (ISA). USA joined ISA as member country to accelerate the global adoption of solar energy. This announcement was made at UNFCCC COP26 on 10 November, 2021. Now, USA will catalyse global energy transition through solar-led approach.
28. Ruling Communist party (CCP) of China passed a rare 'historical resolution' to praise president's decisive significance in rejuvenation of China. This resolution has provided a significant boost to President Xi Jinping's grip on power. This is the third resolution of its kind in the CCP's 100-year history.
29. During COP26 conference in Glasgow, it was decided that Egypt will host COP27 United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2022. Egypt will host the conference in Red Sea resort of Sharm El-Sheikh. This decision was taken after Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi showed in September Egypt's interest in hosting COP27 on behalf of the African continent.
30. India and Sri Lanka have revived their "Parliamentary Friendship Association" for which Minister Chamal Rajapaksa has been selected as its president. At the revival event, Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris noted the "close civilisational ties" between India & Sri Lanka. He observed that greatest gift of India to Sri Lanka was Buddhism.
31. On 11 November, 2021, South Korea demonstrated a system to control urban air mobility vehicles (UAM). The Urban Air Mobility Vehicles will serve as taxis between major airports and downtown Seoul. This project will be functional by 2025 and will cut travel time by two-thirds. As per estimates of transport ministry, such services will cut travel time for distances between 30-50 km from an hour to 20 minutes by air.
32. During a recent health check of London's famous River Thames, it was found that, it is now home to seahorses, seals, eels, and sharks. The survey was conducted by Zoological Society of London (ZSL). This news is significant, because, River Thames was declared 'biologically dead' in 1957.
33. On 12 November, 2021, UN peacekeeping chief warned that crisis in Africa's Sahel region is volatile because Insecurity & instability are undermining prospects for development and many lives are being lost every day because of terrorist attacks.
34. Indian Army is set to conduct the sixth edition of the biennial training exercise with French Army from 15 November, 2021, in series of joint training exercises with friendly nations. India has already conducted joint Naval exercises and Air Force exercises with France earlier in 2021. Shakti 2021 will be conducted from 15 November to 26 November in Frejus, France.
35. Internet Service project, Starlink unveiled a new smaller and rectangular dish, which interested customers can buy to understand SpaceX's growing satellite constellation in low Earth orbit. As per The Verge, the dish is a thinner and lighter-weight option as compared to the circular dish, which is being tested by Starlink beta users over the 2020.
36. India successfully launched the 41st Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, recently. The first batch of Indian contingent arrived at the southern white continent. First batch comprises of 23 scientists and support staff. They reached the Indian Antarctic station Maitri recently.
37. A new study from US shows that white-tailed deer are being infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19 in humans. During the study, Antibodies were found in 40% of deer. They were tested in between January to March 2021 across Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and New York state.
38. Russia recently started supplying S-400 Triumf air defence system to India, giving a major boost to Indian defence capabilities. These defence systems will boost India's capabilities to take out cruise missiles and enemy fighter aircraft at long range. The announcement that Russia started supplying S-400 systems to India, was made during Dubai Air Show.
39. International Olympic Committee (IOC) published advice on transgender athlete rules, recently. This move is aimed at helping sports write eligibility rules for transgender athletes. IOC advices to shift the focus from individual testosterone levels. It also calls for evidence to prove in case a performance advantage existed.
40. The 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Annual Council of Minister's (COM) Meeting was held in Dhaka on 17 November, 2021. India took part in the conference in virtual mode. India was led by Minister of State External Affairs (MoS), Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. IORA COM was held in hybrid format in Dhaka.
41. On 17 November, 2021, India was re-elected to the executive board of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) for the term of 2021-2025. India was re-elected with 164 votes. Among Group IV Asian & Pacific States, Japan, Vietnam, Philippines, Cook Islands and China were also elected.
42. Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, unveiled a record-breaking stimulus package which approximately equals to 56 trillion Japanese yen. Japanese government will also compile an extra budget by the end of 2021, to fund the stimulus programme in order to deliver necessary aid to the public.
43. Asia Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU)-UNESCO Peace Media Awards 2021 were presented on 17 November, 2021 at Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. In the award event, Doordarshan and All India Radio received multiple awards. Multiple awards showcased the excellence of Prasar Bharati in quality content creation, TV shows and Radio shows, to the world.
44. On 20 November, 2021, China launched a new satellite called "Gaofen-11 03" from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre. Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre is located in the northern province of Shanxi. Satellite was launched by a Long March-4B rocket. It entered the planned orbit successfully.
45. Australia signed a submarine deal with new defence alliances, namely United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) on 22 November, 2021. The deal seeks to equip Australian Navy with nuclear-powered submarines. The deal was signed by Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton with U.S. and British diplomats.
46. India and United States have agreed to look after ways of resolving differences on issues like market access and digital trade besides reviving the Trade Policy Forum after four years. This agreement was made at the start of a two-day visit by U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai.
47. Weather bureau of Australia declared on 23 November, 2021 that a La Nina weather phenomenon had developed in Pacific Ocean for the second consecutive year. Development of this phenomenon will bring above average rainfall across central, north and east Australia. This event could boost wheat yields in Australia.
48. The Sagar Shakti Exercise was held from 19 to 22 November, 2021 in creek sector of the Kutch peninsula. It was a four-day mega military exercise. During the exercise, capability and readiness of India to confront any multidimensional security threat was elaborately tested.
49. US President Joe Biden has invited Taiwan, along with more than 100 countries, for a virtual summit. US not invited China and Russia for this meeting. This conference was a campaign pledge by President Biden. He placed the struggle between 'autocratic governments' and democracies at the heart of his foreign policy.
50. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stressed that, Russia adheres to the "two-state solution" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is one of the most enduring conflicts worldwide. The conflict started with the Israeli occupation of West Bank and Gaza Strip, and has now reached in its 54th year. Several attempts have been made for resolving the conflict as a part of Israeli–Palestinian peace process.
51. According to military of Syria, Israeli warplanes attacked army positions in its central region on 23 November, 2021. This attack left two civilians dead and seven people wounded, of which six are soldiers. As per report, warplanes fired missiles while flying over the airspace of Lebanon. Syria's air defences shot down most of the missiles.
52. The World Health Organisation (WHO) designated SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1529 as a 'variant of concern'. This variant of SARS-CoV-2 has been named as Omicron. This variant was first detected in Botswana region of South Africa on 24 November. South Africa is witnessing sharp increase in covid-19 infection, coinciding with the detection of Omicron variant.
53. Germany has announced new development commitments of around Euro 1.2 billion aid to India, in support of India's fight against climate change. This fund will also be used for cooperation on clean energy. Announcement for aid was made amid the visit of a delegation from German Ministry of Economic Cooperation & Development.
54. Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, virtually inaugurated the "5th World Congress on Disaster Management (WCDM)" on 24 November, 2021. While inaugurating the conference, minister noted that, Indian Armed Forces have demonstrated time and again that they care for and stand by India's partners when they need without distinguishing between natural or man-made disasters.
55. Indian government and Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a loan agreement of 300 million U.S. dollars in order to improve primary health care in urban areas. This agreement was signed by Rajat Kumar Mishra, who is a senior official of the department of economic affairs and Takeo Konishi who is country director of ADB in India.
56. Union Minister of Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh held an online meeting with the Science Minister of United Kingdom, George Freeman on 25 November, 2021. In the meeting, the two ministers discussed Green Energy collaboration between both the countries among other issues.
57. India, The Maldives and Sri Lanka are holding the 15th edition of the biennial trilateral coast guard exercise 'Dosti', in the Maldives. Year 2021 marks the 30th year of Dosti Trilateral Coast Guard Exercise. The exercise was started on 20 November and was concluded on 25 November.
58. Barbados has become the World's newest republic, around 400 years after it became a British colony. Barbados, the Caribbean Island nation, removed Queen Elizabeth II as the head of the state. Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, took over as the President of Barbados.
59. World Trade Organisation (WTO) has postponed its "World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference" (WTO MC 12), due to concerns over new Omicron Covid-19 variant. The WTO MC 12 was scheduled to held in November 2021. The WTO was hoping that four-day gathering in Geneva would bring new life into the organisation, which was stuck for years in order to make progress on resolving issues like fishery subsidies.
60. Petr Fiala has been named as new Prime Minister of Czech Republic. President Milos Zeman named him as the PM on 28 November, after his electoral win in October. Petr Fiala leads a center-right coalition. He ousted the outgoing populist Prime Minister Andrej Babis with the help of several left-wing parties.
61. First edition of the Indian Young Water Professionals Programme was launched on 29 November, 2021 virtually. Programme was launched in the presence of Indian High Commissioner to Australia, Manpreet Vohra; Australian High Commissioner to India, Barry O' Farrell and Additional Secretary of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Debashree Mukherjee.
62. On 29 November, 2021, World Health Organization (WHO) warned that; the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus called "Omicron" poses very high global risk. Early evidence shows that, this highly mutated coronavirus could lead to surges with 'severe consequences'.
Defence
1. On 2 November, 2021, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that, Central government has extended the benefits of "Ayushman CAPF healthcare scheme" to the personnel of all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). CAPFs would be able to avail the benefits of the central health insurance programme in a phased manner.
2. Third edition of the annual Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC-21) started in Goa from 7 November, 2021. In the conclave, India will be host to the Navy chiefs of 12 nations of the Indian Ocean Region. GMC-21 will comprise of a three-day-long conclave on building working-level deliberations, which also took place during Goa Maritime Symposium-21 in May 2021.
3. Chief of Defence Staff, Bipin Rawat, is set to inaugurate cOcOn 2021 on 12 November, 2021. cOcOn 2021 is the annual cyber security and hacking conference. It is organised by the Kerala Police. Conference will showcase two days of pre-conference workshops, on 10 November and 11 November. Main conference will be held for two days, 12 and 13 November.
4. As a part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', Rashtra Raksha Samparpan Parv will be organised from 17 November to 19 November, 2021. Rashtra Raksha Samparpan Parv will be organised in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. To mark the occasion, Ministry of Defence (MoD) will dedicate several schemes to the nation.
5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lay down the foundation stone of Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor project in Jhansi on 19 November, 2021. The Defence Industrial corridor is worth Rs 400 crore project. Through this project, central government aims to achieve strategic Independence.
6. Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, inaugurated a curtain raiser event on 18 November, 2021, regarding Wings India, 2022. Wings India, 2022 is the largest event on Civil Aviation (Commercial, General and Business Aviation) in Asia. On the occasion, minister appreciated the efforts of Civil Aviation Ministry, FICCI and AAI with the support of MEA and states government in organising the Wings India 2022.
7. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted permission for mass production of AK-203 rifles, providing fire power to the standard weapon profile of armed forces. DAC has also approved an independent satellite for Indian Air Force (IAF).
8. Second edition of the Maritime SheEO digital conference is scheduled to held on 25 November, 2021. The conference will be held to celebrate change makers, diversity, and sustainable solutions. It has been conceptualised by Sanjam Sahi Gupta, who is the Founder of Maritime SheEO.
9. The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Vela, on 25 November, 2021, which is the fourth stealth Scorpene class submarine under Project 75. Induction of INS Vela will boost its combat capability. Project 75 comprises of construction of six submarines of Scorpene design. Out of six, three submarines namely Karanj, Kalvari, Khanderi, have already been commissioned.
10. 6th edition of biennial Indo – France joint military exercise called "Ex SHAKTI- 2021" concluded on 26 November, 2021 in France. Ex SHAKTI 2021 involved twelve days of intense joint military training. During the exercise, military from both the countries exhibited their combat power and dominance over extremist groups in simulated Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency environment.
Business, Economy & Banking
1. Union Minister of Power, New & Renewable Energy, R.K. Singh inaugurated the Diversion of Marusudar River of Pakal Dul Hydro Electric Project on 1 November, 2021. This project is located in Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir. Accelerated development of hydropower projects is significant for grid balancing and generating peak power.
2. Ministry of Rural Development of Government of India (MoRD) and Flipkart has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). MoU between ministry & Flipkart will help in empowering local businesses and self-help groups (SHGs) by bringing them into the e-commerce fold.
3. A Reserve Bank of India (RBI) panel has suggested for overhauling rules to govern Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARC). Overhauling ARC regulations will enhance the availability of bad loans for transactions. It will also bring in a wide set of investors for distressed assets to the market.
4. India and Bhutan are set to have seven additional entry and exit points for trade in order to increase trade connectivity. This decision was taken in a commerce secretary-level meeting, that was held between the issue of trade and transit between both the countries.
5. In its battle against COVID-19, Delhi Cabinet has approved a budget of Rs 1544 crores for improving health systems in the union territory. Delhi cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, approved the 'Emergency COVID Response Package' (ECRP). This move will enhance the management of resources in Delhi.
6. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) published its 'Statement of Commitment to Support Greening India's Financial System – NGFS' on 3 November, 2021 in order to contribute towards global response for meeting the climate goals. RBI broadly supports the NGFS (Network for Greening the Financial System) declaration.
7. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) modified its prompt corrective action (PCA) framework on 3 November, 2021 to exclude the profitability parameter from its triggers list. In its 2017 framework, capital, asset quality & profitability were the key areas to monitor. In recent modification, round capital, asset quality & leverage will be key areas.
8. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones and dedicated several development projects in Kedarnath, to the nation on 5 November, 2021. PM inaugurated the Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya and unveiled the statue of Adi Shankaracharya. He also reviewed and inspected the executed & ongoing infrastructure works. He offered prayers at the Kedarnath Temple.
9. The Ministry of Civil Aviation declared "Srinagar International airport" as a "Major Airport" on 6 November, 2021. Airport was declared as major airport by exercising powers conferred by Sub-Section (i) of Section 2 of the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008.
10. The State Bank of India (SBI) has released its Financial Inclusion metrics report. It has been prepared by Chief Economic Advisor of SBI group, Soumya Kanti Ghosh. The report states that, financial inclusion policies have a multiplier effect on economic growth, income inequality and reducing poverty. It is also conducive for financial stability.
11. The Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, by which companies are now required to print 'unit sale price' on packaged commodities. New amendment will be applicable from next year. With this move, it will be easier for consumers to find the cost in unit terms.
12. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has started first tour of Shri Ramayana Yatra Special train on 7 November, 2021. This train was launched in order to promote religious tourism and 'Dekho Apna Desh' initiative of the central government.
13. India is observing the fifth anniversary of demonetisation on 8 November, 2021. Demonetisation was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016. With this move, Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes were withdrawn as a legal tender across the country. This move was aimed at eliminating black money.
14. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to organise its first global hackathon called 'HARBINGER 2021–Innovation for Transformation' focusing on digital payments. The global hackathon will be organised under theme of 'Smarter Digital Payments'. The hackathon is inviting innovative ideas in payment settlement system.
15. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launched the first-ever Mentorship programme on 8 November, 2021. The mentorship programme was launched for Young Innovators for marking 75th Year of India's independence. This mentorship programme will help in promoting scientific temper among masses, by strengthening scientific research & innovation efforts in India.
16. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved several measures to support farmers of cotton, sugar cane and jute. CCEA increased the price of ethanol extracted from sugar cane juice to blend it with petrol. Ethanol blending with petrol is expected to reach 10% by 2022 and 20% by 2025. CCEA has also increased the rate for ethanol extracted from C-heavy molasses.
17. India launched an electric vehicle awareness web portal called "e-Amrit Portal" on 10 November, 2021. This portal was launched at the ongoing COP26 Summit in Glasgow, UK. Launch of e-Amrit portal was attended by NITI Aayog Adviser Sudhendu Jyoti Sinha and UK High-Level Climate Action Champion Nigel Topping.
18. Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das raised alarm on cryptocurrencies and cautioned investors on potential pitfalls of digital currency. From a macro economic and financial stability point of view, cryptocurrencies are of serious concern. Governor's comment has come at a time when craze of cryptocurrencies has increased among Indian investors.
19. World's longest bi-lane road tunnel called "Sela Tunnel" is being built on Balipara-Charduar-Tawang (BCT) road by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), under Project Vartak. The Sela tunnel is being constructed at an altitude of 13,800 feet near the Indo-China border. It is being constructed on 317 kilometre long BCT road. The BCT road connects East Kameng, West Kameng, and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of India.
20. The Union government added more than 100 advanced technologies, including alternate fuel systems like compressed natural gas (CNG) & Liquified natural gas (LNG) under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for automobiles. Now the scheme will also cover Bharat Stage VI compliant flex fuel engines, advanced driver assist system, e-quadricyle and electronic control units (ECU) for safety.
21. Civil Aviation Ministry declared Shirdi airport as a major airport on 10 November, 2021 under the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority Act, 2008. The approval was given by exercising the powers conferred by sub-section (i) of section 2 of the 2008 act.
22. Punjab Assembly adopted a resolution against Centre's three contentious farm laws on 11 November, 2021. This resolution was passed after claiming that firm laws had unlawfully ventured into state government's domain. This is the second resolution adopted by Vidhan Sabha against three agriculture laws.
23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched two customer-centric initiatives of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for investors on 12 November, 2021. The two initiatives are- RBI Retail Direct Scheme and Reserve Bank – Integrated Ombudsman Scheme. With the launch of these scheme, India has opened up Government bond market for retails investors.
24. A fungal infection affecting paddy called Rice blast, is affecting farmers who had grown "Manuvarna rice". Manuvarna rice is a brand-new rice selection, that Kerala Agricultural College has launched across more than 250 acres in Wayanad district.
25. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a set of clarifications on 12 November, 2021 regarding its existing asset classification guidelines. Under the guidelines, banks have been asked to specify the exact due dates of repayment in loan agreements. As per current norms, loan turns overdue in case it is not repaid on the due date fixed by bank.
26. Bhadla Solar Park, located in Rajasthan, is the World's largest solar power park. The solar park is located in Bhadla, a dry & sandy region in Rajasthan. It spans over 14,000 acres. The Park comprises of 10 million solar panels at the park. These solar panels contribute to an operational capacity of 2245 MW.
27. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has planned to promote "Vegetarian Trains" in collaboration with the Sattvik Council of India. These trains will be connected especially with religious places. "Sattvik certificate" will be provided by the Sattvik Council of India (SCI).
28. Ministry of Commerce & Industry released its data on Wholesale Price Index (WPI) on 15 November, 2021. As per Ministry's data, provisional Wholesale Price Index (WPI) based inflation have been accelerated to a five-month high to 12.54% in October 2021 as against 66% recorded in September. This rise was attributed to an increase in fuel and manufacturing prices.
29. On 16 November, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Purvanchal Expressway. Purvanchal Expressway is a stretch of about 341-kms. It is more like an extension of the Greater Noida Expressway, Taj Expressway, and Agra-Lucknow Expressway.
30. On India's first centralised database of unorganised workers, e-Shram portal, more than 7.86 crore registrations have been done till date. Out of this number, 40.5 percent belong to Other Backward Classes (OBCs), 27.4 percent general category, 23.7 percent scheduled castes (SCs) and 8.3 percent to scheduled tribes (STs).
31. Ministry of Rural Development organised a National Workshop on Digital India Land Record Modernisation Programme (DILRMP), on 16 November, 2021. The workshop was organised in a bid to boost to national land record modernization programme. This workshop would enable States to share the best practices with each other in the field and learn regarding the latest software developments.
32. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) released the Investor Charter on 17 November, 2021. Investor charter was first proposed in Union Budget 2021-2022 with the aim to protect investors from mis-selling of financial products.
33. Members of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM) met on 18 November in New Delhi to assess India's growth prospects. EAC-PM members were positive regarding real and nominal growth forecasts in Fiscal Year 2022-2023 looking beyond current fiscal year (FY21-22).
34. Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has joined hands with Google India Pvt Ltd (GIPL) to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The partnership will pilot a social impact lending programme, providing a financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore at competitive interest rates to MSMEs.
35. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the "NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure" as an account aggregator. NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure is an IT-enabled services provider. It got an in-principle approval from RBI for setting an account aggregator business under the wholly owned subsidiary called NSDL e-Governance Account Aggregator Ltd.
36. Hingoli income division handed around 225 hectares of land right in Maharashtra to the authorities of Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) venture. The land was handed over in order to organise primary facility within the nation. There are currently few such labs in the United States, at Hanford in Washington and Livingston in Louisiana. These labs examine the gravitational waves.
37. Ministry of coal has constituted a "Sustainable Development Cell", in line with the commitment of clean energy. The Sustainable Development Cell was constituted in the backdrop of Prime Minister's announcement on new climate targets at COP26 under 'Panchamrit Strategy'. Ministry emphasised on to put major thrust on Sustainable Development in coal mining, by taking care of the environmental and social impact of the mining.
38. Government of Tamil Nadu has constituted a FinTech Governing Council in a bid to become a global fintech hub. FinTech Governing Council was set up under the chairmanship of Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu. Chief Secretary V. Irai Anbu will act as the Vice Chairman of Governing Council.
39. Tribal Affairs Ministry and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) jointly launched online certificate course on Experiential Learning. This programme will be deployed for 350 educators across 6 states. Experiential learning seeks to help teachers establish tribal students' connect with their real-life experiences and own contexts.
40. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address on 19 November, 2021 announced that, central government will repeal all the three farm laws. He also requested farmers who are protesting, to return back to their homes. The decision to repeal the farm laws was taken one year after farmers started their protest against it, across the country.
41. AYUSH Minister and Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced to expand 'North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Folk Medicine Research (NEIAFMR)' in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. NEIAFMR will be expanded by developing new infrastructure within the campus.
42. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) under Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD) developed its first State-of-art Quality Control Laboratory to conduct in house testing of food grain samples. Laboratory was set up under the guidance of "Central Food Technological Research Institute" in Mysuru, Karnataka.
43. On the occasion of World Fisheries Day on 21 November, 2021, Balasore district in Odisha received India's "Best Marine District" award. Award ceremony was organised by ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry & dairying. Award was handed over by Union minister for fisheries, animal husbandry & dairying, Parshottam Rupala to director of fisheries of Odisha government, Smruti Ranjan Pradhan.
44. State-level environmental impact assessment committee in Uttar Pradesh (UP) has given Environmental Clearance (EC) for construction of ambitious Ganga Expressway project of UP government. According to a 2006 notification of Union Ministry of Environment, environment clearance for these projects covered under the schedule was mandatory.
45. The Economic Research Department of State Bank of India (SBI) released its research report called SBI Ecowrap, proposing 5 significant agricultural reforms. SBI published its report in the backdrop of withdrawal of three agricultural laws.
46. Stock exchanges, BSE and NSE launched the celebrations of globally popular event "World Investor Week 2021". Under the event, they will conduct several educational activities. Central Depository Services (India) Ltd (CDSL) is also celebrating the World Investor Week (WIW) during 21-28 November, 2021 under the aegis of SEBI and International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
47. Union Labour Minister, Bhupender Yadav, started India's first survey of domestic workers on 22 November, 2021. The survey of domestic workers is latest among a group of five national jobs enumeration campaigns, launched with the aim of discerning data on vast informal workforce in India.
48. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog announced to collaborate with Vigyan Prasar which is an autonomous organization of the Department of Science & Technology, to drive synergies between Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) of AIM and 'Engage With Science (EWS)' of Vigyan Prasar.
49. Indian Railways has launched a new scheme called "Bharat Gaurav Scheme" on 23 November, 2021. Under this scheme, private tour operators can take trains on lease from railways and run these trains on any circuit of their choice. Private operators would also get the freedom to decide routes, fares and quality of services on the trains.
50. Minister of Coal and Mine, Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the "E-portal of accreditation scheme" for minerals exploration on 23 November, 2021. Minister also handed over 52 mines block to the government representatives from 15 state. This scheme was launched at the 5th National Conclave on Mines and Minerals at New Delhi.
51. On 25 November, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for Noida International Airport (NIA) in Gautam Buddh Nagar. PM Modi arrived at Jewar, the place accompanied by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath and Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, to lay down the foundation.
52. The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NBFID) is set to start its lending operations with 190-200 big infrastructure projects in roads, railways, and energy sector. This announcement was made by newly appointed Chairman of NBFID, K. V. Kamath.
53. Central government allotted more of Rs 10000 crore on 25 November, 2021 for MGNREGA Scheme. While allotting the fund, central government stated that, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) is a demand-driven scheme. Government also clarified that during financial year 2021-2022, more than 240 crore person-days has been generated, so far.
54. Second edition of the summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hub (GCPMH) was inaugurated on 25 November, 2021. During the inaugural session, Union Minister Chemicals & Fertilisers stated that, hard work and perseverance of the Government will help in transforming India into a global chemical & petro-chemical manufacturing hub.
55. On 25 November, 2021, Moody's Investors Service highlight that, India's rising vaccination rate, high public spending and low interest rates are driving the positive outlook for corporate sector and non-financial companies.
Science & Technology
1. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX has incorporated its wholly-owned subsidiary in India on 1 November, 2021 to start local broadband operations. The satellite broadband arm of SpaceX, Starlink, aims to start broadband services in India from December 2022. It has 2 lakh active terminals subject to permission from the Indian government.
2. China successfully launched three new remote sensing satellites on 6 November, 2021 from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre located in southwestern Sichuan province. The satellites belong to the Yaogan-35 family. They were launched by a Long March-2D carrier rocket and entered the planned orbit successfully. This was the 396th mission for Long March series carrier rockets of China.
3. Private companies in Australia and Canada are developing a moon mission, in association with the University of Technology Sydney. Under this mission, Australian technology will be sent to the moon by mid-2024, to hunt water on it. If the plan is successful, it will be the first rover made up of Australia components, to make on Moon.
4. The annual Leonids Meteor Shower has started and will be active between 6 to 30 November, 2021. The Meteor Shower will reach its peak on 17 November. Peak time of the meteor shower comes when Planet Earth passes through densest part of the debris. On 17 November, viewers from earth will witness bits of cosmic debris. It will appear like a display of fireworks in the sky.
5. First case of Norovirus was confirmed in Wayanad district of Kerala. Norovirus is an animal-borne disease. It is transmitted through contaminated water and food. Following the confirmation of case, Health Minister Veena George issued guidelines and urged people to be vigilant for the same.
6. Union Law & Justice Minister, Kiren Rijiju and Minister of State for Law & Justice, SP Baghel launched "Citizen's Tele-Law smartphone app" on 13 November, 2021. On the occasion, they also felicitated the frontline functionaries of Department of Justice's Tele-Law.
7. The Hubble Telescope has observed "Prawn Nebula", which is a massive stellar nursery located around 6,000 light-years away in Scorpius constellation. Astronomers classify the Prawn Nebula as an emission nebula, meaning that its gas has been energized, or ionized, by the radiation of neighbouring stars. Radiation from these massive stars catches electrons from the hydrogen atoms of nebula.
8. On 19 November, 2021 in the morning, several countries will witness the next eclipse of the moon. It will be the longest Partial lunar eclipse of the century. It is going to be second lunar eclipse of 2021 and will be similar to the last one, that occurred on 26 May The eclipse will last about 3 hours, 28 minutes and 23 seconds..
9. A direct-ascent anti-satellite (DA-ASAT) missile was tested by Russia on 15 November, 2021. DA-ASAT missile struck a Russian satellite called COSMOS 1408, as a result, debris field in low-Earth orbit. This test has generated about 1500 pieces of trackable orbital debris, so far.
10. Pfizer has signed an agreement with Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) on 16 November, 2021 for Covid-19 Oral Candidate called Paxlovid. Pfizer stated that, it is seeking emergency use authorization from FDA for its investigational COVID-19 pill. It will now allow generic drug makers for producing novel antiviral for low-income and middle-income countries.
11. Kerala government is set to launch a mobile application to improve and track the collection of inorganic waste across local self-governing bodies. Smart garbage mobile app will be launched across all six municipal corporations, 300 village bodies and 70-odd municipalities in the initial phase.
12. Researchers of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, along with other collaborators, identified potential blood-based biomarkers for predicting disease progression and survival times among people with late-stage brain tumours. The researchers analysed tumour and blood samples from individuals with gliomas in order to identify surface proteins on immune cells in blood.
13. Astronomers from Pune-based National centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA) have discovered eight stars which belong to a rare class called Main-sequence Radio Pulse emitters or MRPs. MRPs were discovered using 'Giant Metre-wave Radio Telescope (GMRT)' located in Pune.
14. A group of scientists has identified a new plant species from the forest area of Idamalakkudy colony in Idukki, where Muthuvar tribal community resides. Scientists including from University of Kerala and Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanical Garden & Research Institute (TBGRI), identified the plant.
15. Indian Navy formally commissioned INS Visakhapatnam at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted that India's efforts towards defence modernisation is on full swing and it is a proud day to become Atma Nirbhar in defence sector.
16. NASA is set to test a "Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) technology" in space, with the aim of speeding up space communications. It will be launched into space by Department of Defence, onboard United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket during Space Test Program Satellite-6 (STPSat-6) mission.
17. Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh launched India's first Virtual Science Lab for Children on 22 November, 2021. Virtual Science Lab was launched under CSIR Jigyasa Programme. This programme will connect students with scientists across India.
18. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog announced to collaborate with Vigyan Prasar which is an autonomous organization of the Department of Science & Technology, to drive synergies between Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) of AIM and 'Engage With Science (EWS)' of Vigyan Prasar.
19. Union Health Ministry has issued alert on the risk posed by South African variant of COVID-19. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported that multiple cases of "COVID-19 variant 8.1.1529" have been reported in recent time. Botswana reported 3 cases, South Africa reported 6 cases while Honk Kong reported 1 case.
20. On 26 November, 2021, a Russian cargo craft carrying a new docking module was successfully connected with the International Space Station (ISS), following a two-day space journey. The new spherical module is named Prichal (Pier) was docked with the orbiting outpost. The module will allow potential future expansion of Russian segment of the space station.
Government Schemes
1. Government of Odisha announced full exemption of motor vehicles taxes and registration fees on electric vehicles (EVs) in the state. This decision was taken for encouraging faster adoption of EVs. Exemption was granted under the Odisha Motor Vehicles Taxation Act and is applicable till 2025.
2. On the first day of Ganga Utsav (The River Festival 2021), National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) got registered in the Guinness Book of World Records. It was registered in the Guinness Book because record number of photos of handwritten notes were uploaded on Facebook in an hour.
3. Under "Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana", around 15,000 students have enrolled for coaching classes in the year 2021. This scheme was launched by Delhi Government. It was launched for various competitive exams at some private centres. It covers children belonging to economically poor background and marginalised communities.
4. Tamil Nadu government, in a big leap towards climate action, has set up the first ever Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to manage natural conservation missions in the state. The special purpose vehicle is being dubbed as "Tamil Nadu Green Climate Company".
5. The Union Health Ministry has launched digital registration of all medical facilities and all doctors under the Ayushman Bharat-Digital Mission in order to digitise health records. Under this initiative, government hospitals have been asked to procure Hospital Information Management System software.
6. The Delhi government had announced on 9 November, 2021 to launch "Anti-Open Burning Campaign". The campaign will run from 11 November to 11 December, 2021 in Delhi. This campaign was launched to curb instances of open burning and air pollution in Delhi. It was launched as the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi turned 'hazardous' after Diwali.
7. Union Cabinet restored the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLAD) on 10 November, 2021, citing economic recovery. This scheme was suspended in April 2020 and its funds were subsumed in the consolidated fund of India. It was suspended for two financial years that is, 2020-21 and 2021-22.
8. Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, inaugurated the "Duare Ration Scheme" on 16 November, 2021. The Duare Ration (ration at doorstep) scheme is going to benefit around 10 crore people of the state. Government has also decided to enhance commission for ration dealers from Rs 75 to Rs 150 per quintal of food grains.
9. Hingoli income division handed around 225 hectares of land right in Maharashtra to the authorities of Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) venture. The land was handed over in order to organise primary facility within the nation.
10. Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, inaugurated 130 reconstructed schools as a part of school transformation programme on 16 November, 2021. Schools were inaugurated on the fourth day of 'school transformation programme'. 7 schools inaugurated in Nuapada, 25 in Sambalpur, 83 in Ganjam, 7 in Rayagada, 8 in Nayagarh and 7 in Rayagada.
11. President Ram Nath Kovind is set to honour around 342 cities that have been conferred star rating for being garbage-free and clean in 'Swachh Survekshan 2021'. Union ministry of housing & urban affairs (MOHUA) has been organising "Swachh Amrit Mahotsav" to felicitate the cities. Event will be organised at Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital.
12. Indian Railways has launched a new scheme called "Bharat Gaurav Scheme" on 23 November, 2021. Under this scheme, private tour operators can take trains on lease from railways and run these trains on any circuit of their choice. Private operators would also get the freedom to decide routes, fares and quality of services on the trains.
13. Minister of Coal and Mine, Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the "E-portal of accreditation scheme" for minerals exploration on 23 November, 2021. Minister also handed over 52 mines block to the government representatives from 15 state. This scheme was launched at the 5th National Conclave on Mines and Minerals at New Delhi.
14. On 24 November, 2021, central government has extended "Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana" (PMGKAY) for four months. Terming it as a pro-people move, PMGKAY was extended from December 2021 till March 2022 as a part of Phase 5 of this scheme. This scheme was launched in 2020 in the aftermath of Covid-19 pandemic.
15. Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for continuation of National Apprenticeship Training Scheme for next five years. Cabinet gave approval for stipendiary support of 3 thousand 54 crore rupees to apprentices who undergo apprenticeship training under National Apprenticeship Training Scheme.
16. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the continuation of umbrella scheme called "Ocean Services, Modelling, Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)" for the period of 2021-26. The approval was given for continuation at a cost of Rs 2177 crore.
17. Government of Andhra Pradesh, Union government and the World Bank have signed legal agreements for a loan of $250 million for the "Supporting Andhra's Learning Transformation (SALT) project". SALT project aims to improve the quality of learning for more than 50 lakh students in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
18. The Delhi government announced to add Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan and Velankanni Church in Tamil Nadu to its pilgrimage scheme called "Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana" on 26 November, 2021. As per announcement, Delhi government will send first batch of senior citizens of the city on free pilgrimage to Kartarpur Sahib on 5 January, 2021.
19. Women's Involvement in Science & Engineering Research (WISER) program was launched on 26 November, 2021. This is a first-of-its-kind programme, launched to promote women in the field of research and development by lateral entry. It was launched by Indo-German Science Technology Centre (IGSTC) to encourage women researchers in R&D projects.
20. Kerala Tourism is set to launch "STREET Project" at select spots across seven districts, in order to take tourism deep into the interiors and hinterland of the state. This project has been conceived by Responsible Tourism Mission and is inspired by slogan of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)- "Tourism for Inclusive Growth".
Awards & Honours
1. Karnataka government started celebration of 'Onake Obavva Jayanti' on 11 November from the year 2021. The proposal to celebrate birth anniversary of Onake Obavva was made by Kannada and Culture Department. Onake Obavva was a woman-soldier who had fought against Hyder Ali forces in Chitradurga in 18th century.
2. Padma Vibhushan Babasaheb Purandare took his last breath on 15 November, 2021 at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune. He was 99 years old and on life support. His last rites were performed Vaikunth crematorium in Pune. Babasaheb Purandare was a celebrated historian, author, and theatre personality. His full name was Balwant Moreshwar Purandare. He was famous for his work on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
3. 52nd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held from 20 November to 28 November, 2021. Fifteen films including 'Land of Dreams, directed by Shoja Azari and Charlotte directed by Simon Franco' will vie for the top awards. IFFI will be hosted in Goa.
4. Pratham NGO has been awarded with the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2021 for its work on expanding the scope for education in India. The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament & Development for 2021 was awarded to Pratham NGO for its pioneering work for more than a quarter century in ensuring that every child has access to quality education, its innovative use of digital technology to deliver education, its regular evaluation of quality of education and its timely response in making children to learn amid Covid-19 restrictions.
5. Karnataka celebrated "Kanakadasa Jayanthi" on 22 November, 2021 to pay tribute to Shri Kanaka Dasa, who was the 15th century poet, saint and social reformer. On the occasion, Chief Minister Basavaraja Bommai garlanded the photograph of Kanaka Dasa in Bengaluru. Kanaka Dasa had advocated social equality and justice through kirtans.
6. Senior bureaucrat Vivek Johri was appointed as the chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) on 28 November, 2021. Vivek Johri is a 1985-batch Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Indirect Taxes) officer. He is currently working as the member in the CBIC.
7. 6th edition of the BRICS Film Festival awards was announced at the 52nd International Film Festival of India in Goa. For the first time, BRICS Film Festival was held alongside IFFI during 20 November to 28 November, 2021. Best film Award was shared by South African Film "Barakat" and Russian Film "The Sun above me Never Sets".
Sports
1. On 1 November, 2021, Sports Ministry physically handed over trophies to the winners of National Sports Awards 2020. Winners of the Awards had already received the cash rewards but were unable to collect their trophies and citations during 2020 event because the Sports Awards ceremony was held virtually amid Covid-19 pandemic.
2. Manika Batra and Archana Girish Kamath from India have won the women's doubles title at World Table Tennis Contender Lasko 2021. Both, Batra Kamath, are ranked at 36th. They beat 23rd ranked Puerto Rico's Diaz sisters, Adriana and Melanie, in three games at the final on 7 November, 2021. In the three games, score was 11-3, 11-8 & 12-10.
References:
jagranjosh.com
gktoday.in
business-standard.com
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